Darwinian evolution shapes modern biology, but the notion of evolution has a wider history, too. In this episode of the Sheldrake-Vernon dialogues, Rupert Sheldrake and Mark Vernon explore linear and cyclical conceptions of human and cosmic evolution and ask what they can mean in the modern world, where innovation and evolution appear to be escalating. They consider the significance of two main principles within evolution, that of diversity and creativity, and how these elements can be embraced. They also ask about the difficulty of talking about evolution today, given the presence of intelligent design and creationism. An inability to discuss evolution in a wider context is a loss because evolutionary theory itself is sophisticated and interestingly contested, both in the realm of biology but spirituality: the so-called evolution of consciousness. The discussion includes the ideas of Pierre Tielhard de Chardin and Owen Barfield, Karl Popper and Henri Bergson.For other dialogues - https://www.markvernon.com/talks

Francis Lucille is teaching of Advaita Vedanta who brings together nonduality with science, amongst other subjects, his past having been in physics. Here, he talks with Mark Vernon about the universality of consciousness and how that fits with modern physics, theories of consciousness and the inspiration of wisdom traditions.For more on Francis see - https://francislucille.comFor more on Mark see - https://www.markvernon.com/0:00 Francis’s career in science and how that led him to nonduality10:05 From Krishnamurti to Jean Klein 13:59 The difference made.by quantum physics19:52 How pioneers. In quantum physics drew on eastern ideas22.39 The limits of science and where metaphysics begins32:11 Is there a science of consciousness?37:21 Consciousness as basic, matter as derivative39:06 Panpsychism and the thesis of emergence48:05 The difference between meaning and information53:13 The complexity of things and the simplicity of consciousness01:01:37 The One in ordinary things, everyday awareness01:04:41 Emanation in Plotinus, the dance of Parvati and Siva01:08:40 On being children of light in the gospels

In this enlightening discussion, Simon Critchley—an academic philosopher and author of "On Mysticism"—unpacks the intricate nature of mysticism and its historical figures like Mother Julian and Meister Eckhart. He challenges modern misconceptions, emphasizing the relationship between suffering, creativity, and spiritual experiences. Critchley explores Mother Julian's radical views on sin and divine kindness, and how surrender plays a role in psychotherapy, writing, and music. The conversation beckons a revival of mystical insights in philosophical discourse.

Nick Cave, the celebrated musician known for his profound explorations of faith and grief, joins historian Tom Holland, acclaimed for his insights on Christian values in modern society. They dive into why both artists are drawn back to Christianity, highlighting Cave's imaginative view of God and Holland's fascination with the weird and wonderful. Their conversation raises questions about the resurgence of interest in Christianity, emphasizing a faith that inspires imagination and opens the mind to the unknown, rather than mere numbers.

Delve into the profound insights of Meister Eckhart as he explores the eternal birth of God within humanity. Discover the significance of inner purity and the journey toward self-awareness amidst external distractions. Eckhart challenges us to seek the divine inwardly rather than focusing solely on external celebrations of Christmas. Emphasizing the necessity of silence and receptivity, he presents a transformative path for spiritual growth and deeper understanding, urging listeners to connect with their true essence.

Forms are all around us: clouds, flowers, creatures, even systems of thought and logical relations. And yet the nature of forms is rarely part of the modern scientific conversation. In this episode of the Sheldrake-Vernon Dialogues, Rupert Sheldrake and Mark Vernon discuss the importance of forms and how they work. The need for form to account for life as we know it has been eclipsed by the mechanical philosophy of modern science that turned instead to forces, extrinsic causes and abstract laws. But the case can be made that science needs to revisit the notion of forms. Rupert’s own work draws much from that imperative. The existence of forms also matters in terms of explaining our relationship to others and the world around us. If the cosmos is more mind-like than matter-like than that means our sense of participation and communion is real. Indeed, it might be said that when we study and contemplate, our minds meet the intelligence implicit in all things, which itself arises from the divine intelligence that shapes existence itself.

Explore William Blake's intricate views on God, challenging modern interpretations and emphasizing his mystical understanding. Discover the deep interconnection between humanity and the divine, revealing how this awareness can spark creativity and overcome despair. Delve into the concept of recognizing sacred moments in everyday life, prompting a deeper spiritual engagement and a richer understanding of our collective consciousness. Blake's insights encourage a revival of profound spirituality beyond mere humanism.

The resignation of the Archbishop of Canterbury has highlighted the horrendous nature of abuse in the church and also the church’s difficulties in dealing with these individuals. But is focusing on individuals enough or trying to address these matters through safeguarding and moral injunctions?Those elements are no doubt necessary. But I think also not sufficient. Recent events have reminded me of the extreme naivety around sex that exists in conservative Evangelical circles. And no doubt in other contexts as well.That can conceal deviant behaviour but is also a failure to understanding the nature of gospel, in my view.In these thoughts, I explore how in mystical Christian traditions, as well as those with an interest in inner life and the path to God, the erotic is understood as a key mode of awakening and energy. For if sex is about wanting to have and be had by another, that is but a reflection of the yearning to be one with God, the true promise of the gospel: “oneing” with the divine, as Mother Julian and the author of the Cloud of Unknowing put it.I turn to the insights of Plato, Origen, Dante and William Blake to draw out these themes. And also consider the parables of Jesus and his encounters with various individuals in the gospels as expressions of this deeper yearning, which he seems to have released in them and which might be foster in us, too - with discernment, honesty and wisdom.0:00 My experience of Christian evangelical camps2:50 Sex as a symptom of erotic desire for God6:05 Plato’s insights about the body and why that is discarded11:09 Origen on God’s kisses14:09 The mystics understanding of “Onening”15:05 Dante’s transformation of his desire for Beatrice17:05 Blake on the erotic discovery that all things are holy21:05 The erotic in the gospels and the notion of philia21:40 Jesus’s encounters and his parables as desire for God29:26 The abuse crises call for a lost Christianity

Martin Shaw, a storyteller and teacher known for his focus on myth and story, joins Mark Vernon to discuss the evolving landscape of modern Christianity. They explore the resurgence of interest in faith, the complex legacy of Christianity, and the rise of the New Christians. Shaw shares insights from his transformative journey towards Orthodox Christianity, emphasizing participation in spiritual life and the power of beauty. They also reflect on being present in the world while nurturing genuine connections with the divine amidst contemporary challenges.

One of the premises of modern science is that nature is devoid of purposes. Instead, purposeless explanations for phenomena are sought. And the strategy has proved hugely productive. Except that allusions to purpose never quite fade from the scientific imagination. In this episode of the Sheldrake-Vernon Dialogues, Rupert Sheldrake and Mark Vernon explore the ways in which the natural world is indeed full of purposes, both at the level of the so-called inanimate, as well as in the living world, and the reality we know most immediately and best, namely our own lives and consciousness. The discussion ranges over a range of matters, from the growth of embryos to the attractive nature of gravity and the tendency towards order and beauty. An implication of the presence of purpose in nature and minds is a need to rethink phenomena such as matter and power. And there is an obvious reason that purpose keeps reappearing in scientific accounts, namely that purposes are present in all things. Mark's discussion of David Bentley Hart’s book, All Things Are Full Of Gods, mentioned in the discussion can be found as an early post on this podcast.